The most delicious Arabic food

IDelicious Kofta with Tahini: A Step-by-Step Guide

Kofta with tahini is a rich and flavorful Middle Eastern dish where juicy, spiced meat koftas are baked in a creamy tahini sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with rice or warm pita bread. Follow this step-by-step guide for a delicious homemade version!

Ingredients

For the Kofta:

• 500g ground beef or lamb (or a mix of both)
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon allspice (optional)

For the Tahini Sauce:

• ½ cup tahini (sesame paste)
• ½ cup water
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

For Garnish (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons pine nuts or slivered almonds, toasted
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Pomegranate seeds (for a sweet touch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Kofta:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, grated onion, garlic, parsley, and spices.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Shape the mixture into small oval or cylindrical patties (about 2 inches long).
4. Arrange them on a baking sheet or pan.

2. Cook the Kofta:

• Oven Method:
  1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
  2. Place the koftas on a lightly greased baking sheet.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once, until browned and nearly cooked through.
• Stovetop Method:
  1. Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add a little oil.
  2. Sear the koftas for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned but not fully cooked.
  3. Remove and set aside.

3. Prepare the Tahini Sauce:

1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and cumin.
2. Gradually add water while whisking until smooth and creamy. The sauce should be pourable but not too runny.

4. Assemble & Bake:

1. Place the cooked kofta in a baking dish.
2. Pour the tahini sauce evenly over the koftas.
3. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.

5. Garnish & Serve:

1. Toast pine nuts or almonds in a dry pan until golden.
2. Sprinkle them over the kofta, along with fresh parsley.
3. Serve hot with fluffy rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Kofta with Tahini:

✅ Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
✅ Let the kofta rest before baking to keep them juicy.
✅ Adjust the tahini sauce consistency by adding more or less water.
✅ Serve with a squeeze of extra lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.

This dish is comforting, creamy, and full of delicious Middle Eastern flavors! Would you like any variations, such as adding potatoes or vegetables? 😊